… Governor describes the Oba of Lagos as a visionary and selfless leader
By Rashidat O. Okunlade | Lagos
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated the Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, on his 83rd birthday.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, Governor Sanwo-Olu described Oba Akiolu as a visionary, vibrant, and committed monarch.
The Governor said the traditional ruler is an epitome of dedication and selflessness in public, community, and national service, adding that Oba Akiolu has lived an impactful and purposeful life.
‘An Epitome of Dedication’
“On behalf of my darling wife, Ibijoke, the government, and the people of Lagos State, I congratulate Oba of Lagos, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rilwan Akiolu, on his 83rd birthday,” the Governor said.
“We celebrate Oba Akiolu for the impactful and purposeful life he has lived as the Oba of Lagos for over two decades. He is an epitome of dedication and selflessness in public, community and national service.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu further highlighted the monarch’s exemplary leadership as the Permanent Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs.
“Oba Akiolu has displayed exemplary leadership in Lagos as the Permanent Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs. I salute his passion and commitment to the growth and development of our dear Lagos State,” he added.
“He has used his wealth of experience and knowledge to contribute to the peace, progress and development of Lagos State for many decades. His commitment to the preservation and promotion of our rich cultural heritage and history is unparalleled.”
The Governor concluded with a prayer for the monarch’s continued health and reign.
“As Oba Akiolu celebrates his 83rd birthday today, I pray that the Almighty God will continue to bestow on him good health, wisdom, knowledge and understanding for a continuous reign of peace, prosperity and love in Lagos.”
Why It Matters
Oba Rilwan Akiolu’s 83rd birthday is not just a personal milestone; it is a moment to reflect on the remarkable evolution of Lagos State over the past two decades. Ascending the throne in 2003, Oba Akiolu has been a constant, stabilizing presence in a city characterized by rapid, sometimes chaotic, urbanization.
As the Permanent Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, his influence extends beyond the ceremonial. He has been a crucial bridge between the traditional institution and the modern state apparatus, offering counsel and moral authority to successive administrations. In a time when the roles of traditional rulers are sometimes contested, Oba Akiolu has carved out a niche as a unifier and a custodian of Lagos’s diverse cultural heritage.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s warm tribute underscores the synergy between the state government and the monarchy. It reflects a mutual respect that has helped maintain social cohesion in Nigeria’s commercial nerve centre. As the Oba enters his 83rd year, his legacy serves as a reminder that true leadership is not just about the power one wields, but the peace and progress one fosters.
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